The NHL matchup tonight features the Calgary Flames (5-13-3) facing off against the Buffalo Sabres (7-8-4) at 7:30 p.m. EST at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. Fans can watch the game live on ESPN+.
The Sabres are favored by -1.5 on the puck line, with the over/under for the game set at 6.5 (+105o / -125u). The Sabres hold a significant edge in betting odds, standing as a -167 favorite for an outright win, while the Flames are listed at +140 for an upset.
In previewing the game, the Calgary Flames are currently in the midst of a challenging rebuild. While there are some promising younger players on the roster, several veterans, including Nazem Kadri, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Mikael Backlund, are not making a significant impact as play drivers. The team has struggled particularly with their special teams, converting on just 11.9% of power plays—ranking them at the bottom of the league—and sitting 24th in penalty killing at 77.4%. However, they may have a bright spot in net with Devin Cooley, who has performed well recently, holding a .935 save percentage over his initial games.
On the other hand, the Buffalo Sabres have had a tumultuous season so far. After two recent wins against the Oilers and the Red Wings, they had previously experienced a five-game losing streak. Rasmus Dahlin’s return as captain offers hope, but the team has been impacted by the absence of Zach Benson. Despite ranking in the bottom 10 for expected goals both for and against, the Sabres boast the top penalty kill in the NHL, which could play a crucial role in their upcoming performances. Goaltending remains a concern, with a rotation primarily led by Alex Lyon, but Colten Ellis is a promising player to watch.
As the game approaches, the prediction leans towards the Sabres, particularly given their recent performances and the struggles of the Flames. Betting on the Sabres to secure a victory in regulation at -120 seems a safe option, especially against a fatigued Calgary team coming off a game in Chicago.
Tonight’s matchup promises excitement, and fans will be eager to see if the Sabres can continue their winning momentum while the Flames look to turn their season around.